James Kelly was jeered in the Scottish Parliament when he raised the issue of anti-Catholic bigotry and anti-Irish racism.
It seems that the phrase ‘urgent action’ upset some in the chamber as they jeered the Labour List MSP for raising the subject.
Kelly raised the subject following Neil Lennon’s media conference last week where he redefined the cosy Scottish phrase of sectarianism as anti-Irish racism.
That jaw dropping moment when James Kelly demands that the Scottish Government takes action to combat offensive behaviour at football #FMQs pic.twitter.com/KJJNJpSQAT
— Meanwhile in Scotia (@MeanwhileScotia) November 8, 2018
HURRAH James Kelly raises anti Catholic bigotry and anti Irish racism, to booing and jeering from some within the Scottish parliament.
— Joe McHugh (@videocelts) November 8, 2018
I watched it on Holyrood TV and it sounded like a lot more than 5 or 6 shameful whoever they were. Hopefully @JamesKellyLab might be able to shed light and well done for raising the issue.
— Henriklubo (@Henriklubo) November 8, 2018
i can attest to that too, the sad thing was the Q raised was not contentious, didn’t seek any serious response other than a confirmation of condemnation, thought the 1st minister answered the Q well and with consideration , but the scottish parliament embarrassed it self today
— suburban rebel (@kennyboyle1) November 8, 2018
Despite the jeering of other members the Speaker made no comment before Nicola Sturgeon read out what sounded like a pre-prepared answer.
The Scottish government hasn’t made any comment on Lennon’s remarks with no reaction either from the SFA.
Kelly was behind the repeal of the Offensive Behaviour at Football Act which was brought in by the SNP following the so-called ‘Old Firm Shame Game’ in 2011 when three Rangers (IL) players were sent off.
It’s unsure what the link is between in-discipline of footballers and football fans commiting a crime by singing a song that ‘may cause offence’.
